“We’re working very hard to secure financing for the project, and are excited to work with the city of Grove City,” Hawkeye Hotels executive vice president Ravi Patel said. Hawkeye franchises with Marriott Hotels.

Patel estimated construction will cost about $4 million or $5 million. The project will create about 400 construction jobs and 35 full- and part-time positions.

The building will feature energy efficient lighting and energy-efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

The hotel’s design will be very contemporary and trendy, Patel said. Amenities will include a restaurant, bar, indoor swimming pool, spa, fitness center and free Internet access.

The hotel’s development plan was approved by Grove City Council last September, chief building official Mike Boso said.

During the next three to four weeks, the city development department is expected to complete an engineering review of the project and its building permit plans.

The growth south of Stringtown Road is exciting, Mayor Richard “Ike” Stage said. The hotel sends a signal to those driving in the community that Grove City is a destination point, he said.

“That’s an important distinction,” Stage said. “It’s going to be a signature facility.”

Hawkeye owns another nearby piece of land, at the dead end of Buckeye Place closest to Interstate 71.

The company plans to build a Town Place Suites by Marriott on the roughly two-acre property.

Patel said they probably won’t break ground on that project until late 2012.